Policies

Temporary Repairs on Private Ways:

Many citizens contact the Westfield Public Works and/or Engineering Departments requesting repairs or improvements to their street only to learn it is unaccepted or private and that repairs cannot reasonably be undertaken under penalty of Massachusetts State Law.   In June 2025, City Council adopted an ordinance amending Chapter 16 Section 107 of the Code of Ordinances to provide a mechanism for private ways to receive temporary repairs such as grading, resurfacing, or drainage work under limited conditions.  These repairs must be justified be on private way that have been open to public use for a minimum of 30 years before being eligible and required by public necessity.  Further, a petition signed by at least 66% of abutters must be submitted to the Board of Public Works requesting such repairs, which must be approved by majority vote.

In the links below are the City’s Ordinance, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document, road list, and other documents to petition for temporary repairs to private roads.

• Ordinance 1778 - Temporary Repairs on Private Ways
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Road Designation List
• Petition for Temporary Repairs on Private Ways

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a small residential living space located on the same lot as another home.   Section 8 of the Affordable Homes Act allows ADU’s up to 900 square feet to be built by right in single-family zoning districts.  The Westfield Water Commission and Board of Public Works adopted policies to regulate water, sewer, and trash service to properties with an ADU.  See the links below.

• Water Commission ADU Policy
• Board of Public Works ADU Policy

For more information on changes to the state's Accessory Dwelling Unit zoning provisions, please visit Massachusetts Accessory Dwelling Units Page.